Practical Family Living

Character, Grace and Relationships

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Paul's honesty about his core nature and the working of G od's grace gives each of us hope in our ability to love one another. It is in the acknowledgement of our sin that we become better equipped to love one another.

Clarity of Thought in Relationships

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

There are various fears and concerns that feed behaviors not helpful in our relationships with one another. Specific guidelines are available to aid us in our n eed for clarity of thought and behavior as we seek to experience and provide healthy styles of interacting.

Detours in Relationships

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

There are ways of thinking and acting that seem right only to discover they have detoured us off the path of right relating. God has it in his plan for us to become aware and work towards resolution those patterns that keep us from relating to others in a manner pleasing to Him.

In Pursuit of Belonging

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Sometimes obtaining a sense of belonging promotes behaviors that demean or 'step on' others in order to feel significant. Using a passage from Hebrews, this article takes a look at the role of the priest, our role as priests in the family of God and similarities of responsibility.

Marital Transitions: Parting the Fearful Waters

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Three steps to finding marital stability in the midst of change

Attachment Wounds: Ten Steps That Heal

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Childhood story illustrating bonding and attachment wounds and ten steps for healing

Parenting Perspectives on Behavior and Bonding

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

A child's oppostional behavior may indicate emotional pain. Article explores larger perspectives, including need for bonding and healing.

When Bereavement and Holidays Walk Together

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Roles and traditions between family members, especially during the holidays, can be altered when a loved one dies. Article brings tips on coping with this sensitive family issue.

Transitions and Change: A Tribute to Mr. Fred Rogers

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Changes in life can bring grief, stress, and a longing for the past. Article uses lessons learned from The Mister Rogers Show to show ways to lessen the trauma around transition.

Faith of Our Children: A Model for Home Devotions

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Building a child's Christian faith is a foundational piece in "training up a child in the way he should go." (Proverbs 22:6) Article suggests six practical steps in developing home devitions for the elementary age child.

Trusting God in Trials and Sorrow

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Article depicts, through a teenager's story, how Christ will not delay his provision, safety, strength, and love when we endure trials and suffering.

Teamwork in Tasks and Ministry

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Article describes seven principles to decrease stress through teamwork and delegation in ministry, family, or work-related tasks.

Marching On

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Article shows how God can encourage and strengthen us when facing fatigue and discouragement in challenging situations.

Bread of Bethlehem

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Family and the sharing of communion is the backdrop of this article, which explores how to receive life-giving and healing attributes of God during the Christmas season.

11 Tips to Help Manage Stress

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

Practical, clear and helpful ideas to keep you focused and positive in the Holiday Season

Helpful Guidelines For Resolving Conflict

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

Conflict is normal and full of potential if we manage it skillfully

For Shame, For Shame: How to End Shaming When Disciplining

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

The power and influence of parents is great; keeping the parent-child relationship in its proper place

Advent Traditions

This article provides many ideas to help you and your family celebrate Advent - with special ways to prepare your hearts and minds for the coming of the Christmas season.

Just Right: A Christmas Memory

A story of a family tradition to warm your heart and a reminder that family traditions help build memories that last a lifetime.

Memories: Our Past, Our Present, and Our Future

Daniel Lange, M.S.W., LCSW

Memories present a consistent history to what yiou decide is true of you

Taking Out the Trash: Preparation for the Holidays

Cheryl Chapin, M.S.

Share many blessings with family members instead of strife during the holiday season

Answering Jesus' Call

This article helps the reader make decisions about when it is important to act on Jesus' call and to be open to His timing.

Christmas Shocking

Christmas this year may not happen as you picture it. When things do not go as planned, you may experience Christmas culture shock.

You Don't Need (Much) Money for Fun!

Ten fun and free or low-cost ideas to beat cabin fever.

Blended Families and Teens

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Blended families can be challenging for everyone, especially a teenager. Article describes these challenges and ways to help your teen navigate the ups and downs.

What Teens Want Parents to Understand

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

Some teens believe that parents "don't get it" or "just don't understand." Recently, I asked teens to help me understand what it was like to be a teenager. This article reports their comments.

Working Hard To Be Liked

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

People pleasers work very hard to be liked and crave love and acceptance from others at the cost of their own identity. The real person can become lost in the daze of perceived expectations. But there is good news.

Family Conflict and the Holidays: God Bless Us, Every One!

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., CAPSW

Christmas is supposed to be a time of great joy and celebration, isn’t it? Yet, many have a relative or two in which there is some tension. When you consider the extra stress of the shopping, wrapping, food preparation, traveling, and stretched finances, it is no wonder that family gatherings can be stressful. This article provides tips to handle the stress of family and the holidays with God’s help.

Coming Home

Lynda Savage, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Home is a powerful word. This article speaks to the yearning for home whether one is physically home or not. Where is home? If we do not have a sense of home, where may we find it?

The Notebook

Suzan Myhre, M.S.S.W., LICSW, LPC

This article explores a ritual families can participate in at Christmas. This ritual is one that helps members of the family affirm one another.